Idea Lab Private Programs and Offsite Programs

The Idea Lab offers a variety of private programs starting at ages 13 and up. Tour requests for younger audiences should go to the youth services department here. 

Private programs are intended for small groups/organizations: Girl/Boy Scout troops, homeschooling groups, special need groups, senior citizen groups, small department teams, etc. Most of our private programs have a maximum size of 10 individuals. 

All Idea Lab classes are free. Each class has its own duration and capacity based on our supplies and program complexity. Please view the Program Menu for details about each class. A tour of the Idea Lab can be added to any private program with the addition of 15 minutes to the duration.  

Private programs take place in the Idea Lab at the Blasco Library. If you would prefer an Idea Lab staff member to teach a program at your organization's location, visit the Offsite Program Tab. 

The Idea Lab offers the following time frames for private classes: 

• Monday - Wednesday 10am-12pm
• Thursday 1pm-3pm or 6pm-8pm
• Friday 1pm-3pm

The Idea Lab cannot offer private programs outside of these times slots due to staff availability.

We ask that an organization submit a request by the 10th day of the month prior to the month you wish to visit. For example, if your group wishes to have a private program in March, you will need to submit your request by February 10th.

We ask that a single organization not request more than three private classes a quarter. This is to allow multiple organizations the opportunity to receive a private class from the Idea Lab. We want to share our equipment and skills with as many people of Erie County as possible.

There is no guarantee for a program to happen on a chosen date/quarter, as it depends on staff and room availability.

An Idea Lab Staff member will reach out to you to follow up on your request.

Fill out the link below to request a private program.